Reading New Comedian of the Year Competition 2026

Reading Indie Comedy Festival will return in 2026 between the 16 - 18 of May.

The festival will comprise of 4 days of hilarious shows across Reading's independent comedy circuit.

Further detail will follow as we confirm the festival programme so keep an eye on this page.

The Festival Pass will grant entry to every show at the festival including Special Saturday Show at The Pentahotel with headliner Simon Brodkin and Comedy at the Taproom Sunday Showcase 2026 with Headliner Sara Pascoe.

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Kicking off the festival is Reading New Comedian of the Year Competition 2026 taking place at The Purple Turtle on Friday 15 May between 7:30pm and 9:30pm.

8 new comedians will battle it out to win a paid spot at Mates Rates Comedy Club and a cash prize.

Lineup subject to change

Please be advised that you will need id to get into The Purple Turtle.

Festival pass: £50

Advance - Reading New Comedian of the Year 2024 ONLY: (£7)

Lineup subject to change. Timings may changes slightly as we finalise the festival schedule.